7 Historical Places to See in Istanbul
The Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, it later became a mosque and is now a museum. Its massive dome, stunning mosaics, and impressive architecture make it a marvel of Byzantine engineering. The interior is adorned with intricate designs and grand marble pillars, reflecting the opulence of its past. Visiting the Hagia Sophia offers a glimpse into the city's diverse religious and architectural history.
Topkapi Palace was the primary residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. This sprawling palace complex features beautiful courtyards, lush gardens, and historic rooms. Key highlights include the Harem, where the sultan's family lived, and the Treasury, which houses the famous Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker's Diamond. The palace's location offers stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait, adding to its historical charm.
The Galata Tower, a medieval stone tower, offers some of the best panoramic views of Istanbul. Built in 1348 during the Genoese period, the tower has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a watchtower and a fire lookout. Today, you can climb to the top of the Galata Tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the Bosphorus Strait, and the Golden Horn. It's a great spot to appreciate Istanbul's diverse cityscape.
The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Yerebatan Sarnıcı, is an underground marvel built in the 6th century to store water for the city. This massive cistern, supported by 336 marble columns, is an impressive example of Byzantine engineering. The columns are intricately designed, and two of them feature mysterious Medusa heads. To visit the Basilica Cistern, you can purchase Basilica Cistern tickets, which grant access to this eerie and enchanting underground space.
The Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is another architectural gem of Istanbul. Completed in 1616, it is renowned for its stunning blue tiles that decorate the interior walls. The mosque's six minarets and grand dome create a striking silhouette against the Istanbul skyline. The Blue Mosque remains an active place of worship, and visitors are asked to dress modestly when entering.
The Hippodrome was an ancient chariot racing stadium and a major social and political center in Byzantium. Although much of it has been destroyed over the centuries, you can still see remnants of this grand structure, including the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the Walled Obelisk. The Hippodrome's history offers insight into the public life of ancient Constantinople, making it a significant site for history enthusiasts.
The Chora Church, now known as the Kariye Museum, is famed for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Originally built as a church in the 4th century and later renovated, the Chora Church showcases some of the finest examples of Byzantine art. The mosaics depict scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, providing a stunning visual narrative of religious history. The Chora Church is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the visit for art and history lovers.